Direct proof of use
Centauro B1 vehicles are documented in Ukrainian service during the 2014 Russia-Ukraine War through Ukrainian unit footage and later Army TV coverage. Defense Express reported on November 2, 2025 that a video released by the 78th Separate Air Assault Regiment showed a B1 Centauro in Ukrainian use, with additional slat and folding grill protection already fitted.
Army Recognition likewise described the November 2025 78th Regiment footage as visual confirmation of newly delivered Italian Centauro B1 wheeled fire-support vehicles. In May 2026, Army TV footage showed Centauros operated by Ukraine's 78th Separate Air Assault Brigade, and reporting on that footage described crew testimony about using the 105 mm gun from closed firing positions.
Sources: Ukraine Receives B1 Centauro Wheeled Tanks, Ukraine Fields Italy's Centauro B1, Army TV Centauro B1 Video, Rare Footage of Italy's B1 Centauro Tank in Ukraine, United24 Centauro With 78th Brigade
Battlefield role
In Ukrainian service, the Centauro B1 is described primarily as a wheeled 105 mm fire-support vehicle rather than a classic tank-on-tank platform. Reports tied to the Army TV footage say the drone-heavy front makes direct armored engagements difficult, while Ukrainian crews use the Centauro from closed positions when targets are outside direct line of sight.
The available public evidence identifies the user and role but not the full delivery scale. Defense Express and United24 Media both note that the number of vehicles delivered remains undisclosed, so the record treats the Centauro's Ukrainian use as documented but limited in publicly confirmed scope.
Sources: Rare Footage of Italy's B1 Centauro Tank in Ukraine, United24 Centauro With 78th Brigade, Business Insider Centauro 11 Kilometer Shot
Adaptations in Ukrainian service
The vehicles shown in Ukrainian service carry improvised protection for the 2014 Russia-Ukraine War's drone and top-attack threat environment. The November 2025 reporting described slat armor and a folding grill cover, while the May 2026 reports identified cage armor, a protective hood over the turret area, and additional screen or netting elements.
These modifications do not change the Centauro's basic identity as an Italian 8x8 tank destroyer with a 105 mm gun, but they show that Ukrainian units adapted the platform before or during frontline use.
Sources: Ukraine Receives B1 Centauro Wheeled Tanks, Rare Footage of Italy's B1 Centauro Tank in Ukraine, United24 Centauro With 78th Brigade
